The Turkana County Government will work with national government agencies and development partners on irrigation projects to boost food security.

Governor Josphat Nanok said Sh176.5 million had been spent this financial year to establish Naparpar, Kaputir, Naadung’a and Lomidat irrigation schemes.
“Nangitony, Kalomegu and Kakwanyang, are already operational, while Nakwamoru and Kanaodon schemes are being expanded to increase crop production,” said Mr Nanok.

He said Sh232.2 million has been used on the Turkana Rehabilitation Programme, which has been relying on the World Food Programme.

Potentially, over 75,000 acres is expected to be under irrigation in the county.

The governor said Sh55 million would be spent to buy farm tools and seeds.

“Sh21.1 million has been allocated for rain water harvesting. They water would be used for dry land farming on parcels located far away from River Turkwel and River Kerio,” he said.

Mr Nanok said residents living around Napuu water aquifer would use the underground water to irrigate 150 acres.

While admitting that water scarcity is a thorny issue facing his administration, the county chief said he had carried out restructuring and officers had been sent to deal with the challenges.

Mr Nanok said, after sacking the Water, Irrigation and Agriculture executive, Ms Beatrice Askul, he is working to address understaffing.

He said 123 skilled workers would soon be employed to fill the void.

By SAMMY LUTTA